The Chilean Society of Biology celebrates the tribute to Dr. Mary Kalin. With emotion and pride, the Chilean scientific community gathered at a special event to honor the distinguished biologist and member of the Chilean Society of Biology, Dr. Mary Kalin. The ceremony, held at the Facultad de Ciencias of the Universidad de Chile as part of its 60th anniversary, brought together university authorities, researchers, students, family, and friends who came together to celebrate the life and legacy of someone who has been a pillar in training new generations and an essential reference in the country’s natural sciences.
Dr. Kalin, awarded the 2010 National Prize for Natural Sciences, has been a pioneer, mentor, and source of inspiration for countless colleagues. The event featured speeches from authorities, including Vice-Rector Claudio Pastenes, Vice-Dean Robert Auffarth, Professor Claudio Wernli, and Dr. Claudio Veloso, Director del Departamento de Ciencias ecologicas. Ex- Alumni Dr. Francisco Squeo, Dr. Ricardo Rozzi, and Dr. María Fernanda Pérez also participated, sharing moving testimonies about the profound impact Dr. Kalin has had on their personal and professional journeys.
The tribute combined speeches, a poetic video composed of décimas ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VmIQFZsj9W8), testimonies, and music, creating an atmosphere of gratitude and recognition for Dr. Kalin’s generosity, passion, and dedication to both scientific and human development at the University of Chile and across the country.
The event concluded with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque at the newly named Mary Kalin Building and a warm moment of gathering among all those present. From the Chilean Society of Biology, we congratulate Dr. Mary Kalin and celebrate her extraordinary legacy, which continues to inspire the national scientific community.